John J. Annunziata is a seasoned executive and visionary leader with over 35 years of multifaceted experience across finance, construction, real estate development, and franchise entrepreneurship. Known for transforming underperforming ventures into thriving businesses, John’s unique strength lies in blending financial acumen with community-minded leadership. His career is a testament to enduring success driven by core values—discipline, integrity, and service. From the corporate towers of New York to the town boards of South Carolina, John has made a mark as a builder of companies, communities, and legacies.
John’s professional journey began with a strong foundation in finance, graduating with degrees in Accounting and Finance from Adelphi University and Nassau Community College. This academic grounding launched his early career at Merrill Lynch in New York City, where he honed his analytical and financial reporting skills as a Senior Analyst. At Merrill Lynch, he consolidated the financial operations of over 72 global entities, a formidable task that sharpened his strategic vision and deepened his understanding of complex corporate ecosystems. The role shaped his meticulous attention to detail and gave him insight into global finance at a high level.
Driven by a desire to pursue entrepreneurial endeavors, John founded Candlewood Finance, LLC in 2001. As President of Acquisitions and Development, he created financing solutions for commercial construction, residential real estate, and mixed-use developments across the northeastern U.S. Under his stewardship, Candlewood sourced and structured more than $20 million in development projects, cultivated key relationships with major financial institutions, and facilitated projects ranging from medical centers to multi-unit townhomes. His visionary leadership not only built assets but also built trust, becoming a respected figure in the real estate finance community.
John’s strategic reach extended into property development with the formation of Candlewood Properties Inc. There, he spearheaded the acquisition, demolition, and redevelopment of a 6,200-square-foot property into a 26,000-square-foot multi-use commercial complex. He completed this ambitious project within ten months—demonstrating project management excellence, sharp financial forecasting, and a boots-on-the-ground understanding of development logistics. The project became a model for future development in New Milford, Connecticut, and solidified his reputation as a hands-on, outcomes-focused leader.
In tandem with his finance and development ventures, John entered the fitness industry with a clear vision: create wellness-centered communities through business revitalization. As the franchisee and operator of multiple Snap Fitness 24/7 locations, he transformed struggling centers into award-winning operations. Within just a few months, he brought the facilities to profitability, led high-performing teams, and introduced innovative customer retention and lifestyle programs. His leadership earned him multiple accolades, including the Snap Fitness First Franchisee Award and two terms on the Franchisee Advisory Board—an honor conferred by peer franchisees.
Outside of the business arena, John has remained deeply committed to philanthropy and community leadership. As Vice President and Secretary of The Annunziata Family Foundation, he has directed efforts for over two decades toward juvenile diabetes, cancer research, and underserved communities. He has forged impactful relationships with esteemed institutions such as Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, NYU Langone, and the Alzheimer’s Association. John’s philanthropic ethos reflects his belief that successful executives must give back—supporting both local and global causes that align with compassion and human dignity.
John has also brought his financial expertise to community governance, currently serving as Chairperson for the Finance Committee of his local Homeowners Association. In this role, he ensures fiscal responsibility, transparency, and long-term planning for community resources. His work at the HOA mirrors his corporate philosophy: steward capital wisely, communicate clearly, and build consensus to advance collective goals. Previously, he served in leadership positions for nonprofit and youth sports organizations, highlighting his long-standing dedication to grassroots involvement and mentorship.
His global perspective was shaped by professional experience in Brazil, where he engaged in homebuilding and construction ventures. This international exposure broadened his operational outlook and reinforced his cultural adaptability—critical traits in today’s interconnected marketplace. Whether operating in South America or the northeastern U.S., John brings a universal language of results, integrity, and relationship-building to every initiative he leads.
John is not just a builder of businesses—he is a builder of people and purpose. His approach to leadership is collaborative, data-informed, and ethically grounded. With a sharp mind for numbers and a heart for service, he motivates teams to achieve measurable outcomes while fostering a culture of respect and innovation. Whether leading strategic planning sessions, mentoring emerging leaders, or pitching capital partners, John communicates with clarity and conviction.
Today, John J. Annunziata stands as a compelling board candidate across industries ranging from finance and fitness to startups and real estate development. His blend of operational experience, financial rigor, entrepreneurial grit, and human-centered leadership equips him to guide organizations through growth, transformation, and sustainable success. John’s legacy is not just what he’s built—but the enduring value he leaves behind in every venture, partnership, and community.
Character:
John’s personal and professional conduct is rooted in integrity, accountability, and service. He believes in doing what’s right even when it’s not easy and leading with humility in every boardroom and community meeting.
Knowledge:
With deep expertise in finance, development, and operational leadership, John brings a wealth of knowledge across multiple verticals. His insights are backed by real-world experience and strategic foresight cultivated over three decades of executive leadership.
Strategic:
John’s career reflects a mastery of aligning vision with execution, whether in structuring multimillion-dollar finance deals or revitalizing underperforming businesses. His decisions are driven by a strong analytical foundation and a focus on long-term impact.
Communication:
He is a clear, persuasive communicator who inspires confidence and fosters collaboration across diverse teams and stakeholders. From investor pitches to public speaking engagements, John delivers messages with authenticity and precision.
